Elizabeth Van Lew was born on October 15, 1818 in Richmond Virginia. She played an important part in the history of the United States, as she was involved in the American Civil War era.

     She was a spy for the Union, yet she lived in Virginia during her time of significance and service to the U.S. The Van Lews were rich, slave owners. Elizabeth grew up in her family mansion with slaves to do her work. However, her beliefs did not match her father's beliefs. 

     She did not believe in higher power or slavery. She believed in justice for all. All three quotes included on the Quotes Page, support this belief she had about equality for all.      At first, she simply tended wounds and took food to the Union prisoners locked away at the Libby Prison. Soon, she started taking food in and leaving with Union prisoners. She aided many Union prisoners by allowing them to hide in her family mansion. She even had a secret entrance to a secret room for the Union prisoners to stay in. By doing this, she saved many lives. Later, she developed an entire spy circle inside and outside the Confederate government. She would send secret messages to her fellow spymates by sending secret messages hidden inside objects. (It is rumored to be that she sometimes sent her messages inside eggshells.) Through a similar way of contact, she would warn the Union generals about the Confederate's plans, attacks, and battle strategies. Not only